Health & Wellbeing
What is 'Mental Health'
Mental health is about how we think and feel, and has a direct effect on how we behave. It is primarily about mood and emotion, and everyone can be affected at some time by changes to their 'mental health'. A quarter of the population of the UK will have a mental health problem, at some time in their lives that will affect daily life, relationships or physical health.
Who does it affect?
Mental health problems can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, social background or race. Mental health problems take many different forms and severity, from mild or moderate depression, anxiety or stress to schizophrenia or bi-polar and personality disorders. Many different names are used to describe these health problems. Please refer to our Glossary for more information, or see below for background information on specific problems. Diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia generally develop in old age, whereas eating disorders are more common in the young. Particular mental health problems are also more common in certain people. For example, women are more likely than men to have anxiety disorders and depression. Drug and alcohol addictions are more common in men, and men are also more likely to commit suicide.
Without care or treatment, mental health problems can have a serious affect on the individual and their relatives, friends and colleagues.
Why does it happen?
There is no single cause of mental health problems - the reasons why problems develop are as varied as the people affected. Mental health problems can also develop as a result of stressful events, such as moving house, redundancy, the death of someone special, or long term sickness. Drinking too much alcohol over a long period of time, and using illegal drugs can contribute to mental health problems, particularly in people who are already vulnerable.
How can it be treated?
Sufferers need help and support to enable them to cope with their problems. There are many treatment options, including medication, counselling, psychotherapy, complementary therapies and self help strategies. That is why it is important that people with mental health problems are told about the options so they can make an informed decision about the treatment that will give the best results. Another important step in the recovery process is for the person to accept they have a problem, and to want to do something about it. This can take time and it's important for family and friends to be supportive. There are also many support groups and charities that offer advice, confidential counselling and information about the types of treatment available and where to get help.
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